The fuel crisis has spread to 57 regions of Russia, with prices rising rapidly

In Russia, the fuel crisis has spread since August and now affects at least 57 regions. Gas stations are struggling with gasoline supply shortages, prices are rising rapidly, and some gas stations have had to close, reports the Russian BBC.

The regions most affected are Crimea, Sakhalin, and Transbaikalia, where only two refineries are available. In some regions, gasoline is only sold with vouchers or under strict restrictions. The situation in Moscow is more stable thanks to multiple fuel sources, but shortages of certain types of gasoline are also being reported there.

Attacks by Ukrainian drones on Russian refineries are also contributing to the growing pressure. Since the beginning of the year, gasoline prices have risen by more than 10 percent, while the official inflation rate was only around 4.5 percent.

The Russian government responded with an export ban on petroleum products until the end of the year. Experts warn that the further away from Moscow, the worse the supply situation is.

(mja)